Wicklow Voice December 11 2014

wicklowvoice

20,000 NEWSPAPERS! 5,000 WEB VISITORS! 3,000 APP DOWNLOADS! ONLINE, OFFLINE - WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED !

.ie

December 11, 2014, t: 01 901 5556/7, e: info@wicklowvoice.ie

FREE

20,000 COPIES

FREE

Unit 8, Radio Centre , Killarney Road, Bray

GIVE THE GIFT OF

BEAUTY WWW.ANNASCHU.IE

BUY ONLINE OR INSTORE VOUCHERS NEVER EXPIRE AND ARE REDEEMABLE AT ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS VOUCHERS CAN BE MADE UP TO ANY MONETARY VALUE - STILLORGAN - 01 2888882 - BRAY - 01 2828422 - DELGANY - 01 2873166

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

ChangE thE panE – KEEp thE framE!™ UpgraDE nOW tO New Energy pLUS glass and rEDUCE your household heating bills Up to 60% more efficient than standard double glazing

Up to 80% more efficient than standard single glazing

Suitable for Timber, Upvc and Aluminium

lled with solutely thri b a re a e W “ ve the e can’t belie W . b jo e th y got aven’t nearl h – ce n re diffe il this e tank of o through on usually and would winter yet We just o by now. have used tw manship ht the work ig sl ’t n ld u co mpletion liness on co n ea cl e th and to your ic – add us was fantast happily” referral list

Qualifies for HRI Scheme

ü Old Single glazing converted to New Energy pLUS glass Double glazing ü Existing Double glazing converted to New Energy pLUS glass Double glazing ü Drastically reduces condensation, drafts and cold spots ü Installed in one day – no redecorating required ü WINTER ü reflects radiated heat back into the room ü g in d a r g Special Offer in up Specialists ü Improve home energy rating (BEr) ü s w o d in timber w Discount ü 10 year guarantee ü 0 years for over 3 on ALL ORDERS ü prOvEn tO SavE mOnEy ü ü Clearshield Eco-glass – Low maintenance glass ü Whitemill Industrial Estate, Wexford Tel: 053 9144111 045 255200 022 32500 Web: www.wexfordvikingglass.com Email: info@wexfordvikingglass.com

imerick J & C penny L

The company you can trust Established 1928

Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle!

Christmas made easy. Apply today for a 1 year preferential loan at 7.0% APR*.

We would like to wish all our members a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. Keep an eye on our facebook page, website and in our office for details of our Christmas competitions. ...............................................................................................

Sign up for our Monthly Car Draw for your chance to win a brand new car. You have more than 12 chances a year to win prizes for less than €1 a week.

Terms and conditions apply. *Annual percentage rate.

www.braycu.ie

Credit Union House, Main Street, Bray, Co. Wicklow.

T: 01 286 2624 E: info@braycu.ie BRAY CREDIT UNION IS REGULATED BY THE CENTRAL BANK OF IRELAND

Borrow

€500 Weekly Repayment

€10

wicklowvoice

20,000 NEWSPAPERS! 5,000 WEB VISITORS! 3,000 APP DOWNLOADS! ONLINE, OFFLINE - WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED !

INSIDE: FREE

December 11, 2014, t: 01 901 5556/7, e: info@wicklowvoice.ie

.ie

20,000 COPIES

Locals urged to dig deep this Christmas

Please help those in need, Give A Gift organisers ask

By Michelle McGlynn

AN appeal has gone out to the people of Wicklow to dig deep for this year’s East Coast FM/ St Vincent de Paul Give a Gift campaign.

The campaign aims to bring some Christmas cheer to those who need it most.

Give a Gift is now in its seventh year and has been a great success in the past as the people of Wicklow have come together to give a helping hand to those in need.

“The people in Wicklow have always been very generous when it comes to the Give a Gift campaign and we have distributed countless gifts as a result of their kindness,” Claire Darmody, producer of the Morning Show on East Coast FM and organiser of the campaign, told the Wicklow Voice.

“We here at East Coast FM and the volunteers at St Vincent

East Coast FM’s Gareth Farrell and Claire Darmody with some of the gifts which have already been donated. » Lots more pictures from around the county inside de Paul are so appreciative but as the demand continues to increase, we really need people to dig deep this year.

“Everyone is aware of the problems facing many families at the moment and we would like to provide a little bit of

relief and spread some joy over the Christmas period.”

Wicklow residents are asked to drop a new, unwrapped gift worth a minumum of €10 in to the East Coast FM studios in the Radio Centre on Killarney Road, Bray.

They require presents for boys and girls of all ages and people can attach a gift tag specifying who it is meant for if they wish, ie. age, gender.

Those involved in the campaign have reminded those donating to consider purchasing a present for an adult.

The Christmas season puts enormous pressure on parents who are finding it difficult to provide for their families and may not have anybody to think of them this Christmas.

If you cannot make your way to the East Coast studios there are other locations willing to accept the donations.

Continued on page 4

FREE

Unit 8, Radio Centre , Killarney Road, Bray

4 | NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

Life-saving dentist has reason to smile

news in brief Customer night DOCKYARD No 8 in Bray Harbour are holding a night for their customers to say thank you for their support on December 13 from 7pm.

Mince pies along with some mulled wine will be served free of charge.

President’s dinner BRAY Chamber of Commerce President’s Dinner will take place on February 6 in the Glenview Hotel. Contact 01 2828248 or email info@ braychamber.ie.

This year marks The Glenview Hotel’s centenary year.

Festive concert A CONCERT featuring the Habemus Chamber Choir performing Christmas, Choral and Contemporary favorites will take place in St. Anne’s Church, Shankill, on December 21 at 8pm.

Tickets €10 per person / €20 per family.

Complimentary mulled wine/tea/coffee and mince pies in St. Anne’s Resource Centre afterwards.

Proceeds in aid of St. Anne’s Parish.

Dr James Turner, who is based in Rathdrum, was named as the Sensodyne Sensitive Dentist of the Year 2014 at a gala event in Royal Hospital Kilmainham last Saturday. Pic: Maxwells

By Michelle McGlynn WICKLOW dentist Dr James Turner has been named Sensitive Dentist of the Year after he detected throat cancer in a patient.

Mary Hallis nominated the Rathdrum based dentist after he played a key role in diagnosing her cancer.

“I just wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for him,” Mary said as she spoke of her eternal gratitude for Dr

Turner. Mary added that she will always be in his debt and is delighted that he has been honoured at the black tie gala event at the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham.

Dr Turner won not only the overall award but also the Rest of Leinster regional award, beating our over 1,000 other nominees.

“I’m just thrilled and I thank Mary for her nomination. I’m looking forward to seeing her in the coming

days,” Dr Turner said following the presentation.

“Mary has come through a very difficult time and I’m just delighted she is in good health.”

The Sensodyne Sensitive Dentist of the Year awards invites patients to nominate their dentist if they believe they have gone above and beyond normal patient care.

As the winning nominator Mary has won a holiday to the value of €5, 000.

Locals urged to dig deep at Christmas Continued from previous page

THE HARBOUR BAR Live Lounge z Band (Dixieland Jazz) Wed 10 Des Hopkins Jaz d) Ban Thur 11 Vangoose (Brass ard-Driving Acoustic Blues) (H ny Po Fri 12 One Horse (Blues rock) rs rge ha rdc Sat 13 The Ha Indie Pop) Sun 14 Ross Breen (Folk,

ar

ur B

arbo

AR, RB OU Bray 4 ARB rrace, 227 e EH bar TH ock T 286 rbour_ D / 01 ha 1-4 ar.ie @the ourb ray t: arb rb theh ourba rb eha

f: /th

The H

Plus trad in the bar Wed -

Sat

Also this week:

Bar The Harbour af Christmas Cr t Fair

from 12-5pm Sat 13th & Sun 14th Dec free entry, don’t miss it!

ray

f: /theharbourbarb

t:@theharbour_bar

Gifts can be dropped to Kidzone in Wicklow Town, Bridgewater Centre in Arklow, Londis in Aughrim, Shoreline Leisure Centre in Greystones, Avondale Sports in Rathdrum and Dunnes Stores in Blessington Town Centre and Newtownmountkennedy.

Unlike other campaigns, your donation will be kept in Wicklow and distributed locally from the venue where you dropped it off.

Donations of money are welcome and can be donated online at www.eastcoast.fm/ giveagift.

Any gifts that are donated after the closing date will still be given to someone in need.

Businesses could buy gifts for the campaign instead of the traditional office Secret Santa.

A small act of kindness such as buying a gift for someone who otherwise might be without can make an incredible difference.

Help to bring a much-needed smile to someone’s face this Christmas and donate to the East Coast FM/St. Vincent de Paul Give a Gift campaign before December 21.

ISPCA to remain in charge of county dog pound

By Cianan Brennan

THE Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) is to remain in partnership with Wicklow Dog Pound for the foreseeable future despite rumours to the contrary.

However, the pound’s status will remain officially ‘under review’.

It had been suggested recently that the ISPCA might pull out of Wicklow’s pound, based in Rathdrum, as the society has done in other counties such as Roscommon and Kilkenny.

However, speaking to the Wicklow Voice the organisation’s Chief Executive Andrew Kelly sought to clarify the situation.

“We will continue to operate the dog warden services in Wicklow and no decisions have been made in relation to that service, although the ISPCA is in the process of reviewing all its operational activities,” he said.

“We have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from dog warden services from four other counties, all of which have been put out to tender by the local authorities.”

Tenders to run the pound in a county typically amount to roughly €100,000 per year.

When contacted for comment senior environmental officer at Wicklow County Council Helena Dennehy confirmed the ISPCA’s stance.

“The ISPCA are currently contracted to run the dog control

services on behalf of the county council, and that contract runs until February 28, 2017,” she said.

“We have worked with the ISPCA in the operation of the pound for a number of years and have always maintained a very good relationship.”

“We are scheduled to meet before the end of 2014 which will provide an opportunity to discuss any future operation of Wicklow Dog Pound, including ISPCA contracts,” Dennehy added.

The ISPCA’s withdrawal from the operation of pounds in other counties has officially been attributed to financial and logistical factors.

However it has been suggested that the society’s withdrawal from the running of pounds around the country is as much a damage-control exercise after criticism from animal rights groups regarding the high rate of dogs being put to sleep by what is ostensibly an animal rescue organisation.

Alison Murphy, a founding member of non-profit Wicklow dog welfare organisation Chance, believes the situation in Wicklow is a delicate one.

“I think the history of the ISPCA in pounds is not very good and that a clean break from it can only be a good thing,” she said.

“ISPCA withdrawal is good news if the county councils responsible consult with reputable groups whose core value is a healthy and happy outcome for dogs.”

Christmas at the Mermaid

By Michelle McGlynn

THE Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray have a jam packed schedule lined up for the Christmas season.

Weighing In is a hilarious play about attending weekly EasiSlim weight loss meetings. The Mermaid and Ocean Bar and Grill, Bray are teaming up to offer this as part of their dinner and show package. Weighing In is on December 17 and 18 with

tickets available from €14.

Swan Lake, one of the most famous ballets, will be arriving on December 20 and 21. Tickets are €22/€20 or €75 for a family of four.

They will also be screening a host of Christmas films for all the family including Scrooged, Polar Express and White Christmas for €5.

For more information on these events, see www.mermaidartscentre.ie.

NEWS |5

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

wicklow people in pictures

Michele and Martha McNerney at the St Andrews Christmas market in Bray.

Jayden and Kian Tracey from Arklow enjoy some festive fun

Niall, MJ and Tara Cull (6) and Alfie the dog out and about in Wicklow Town

Diane Flanagan, Angela McCann and Breda Hempentstall at Ladies Workout Express

The People’s Choice Winners of Aughrim Business Association Photography Competition. This year’s votes went to Sheila Doran from Avoca for her photo titled ‘Where’s me Nuts’, Patrick Fox from Cork for his picture ‘Big Dog’, was represented by Arnie Elias from Aughrim (Arnie is the owner of Marley the Newfoundland who features in the photo) Damien Keogh from Clone for his photo ‘Lara’ with his daughter Lara who features in the picture. Each winner received a framed copy of their winning picture.

Noel, Rosaleen (four months), Beth (2) and Barbara Mac Aoidh with Santa at the Kilruddery Christmas Market in Bray

6| NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

Jailed art thief was behind Tinakilly ancient map heist

By Peter Murphy

AN international art thief who was jailed for punching a painting at the National Gallery was previously convicted of handling 17th Century maps stolen from Tinakilly House.

Andrew Shannon was sentenced to five years last week for damaging the Monet masterpiece at the National Gallery on June 29, 2012.

During his sentencing it was revealed that in November 2011, Shannon was sentenced to 10 months suspended in Wicklow Circuit Court for handling stolen property involving maps dating from 1651 with a value of €6,000.

When the Wicklow Voice investigated these offences, it was discovered that maps were taken from the Tinakilly House Hotel in November 2006.

Gardaí then raided an apartment owned by Shannon at 12 Willans Way, Ongar, Dublin 15

where they found the framed 17th Century prints, believed to be original prints by John Speed, Britain’s most famous map maker.

The original trial heard that the maps had been stolen from Tinakilly by Shannon’s brother Gerry of 94A Upper Drumcondra Road.

Shannon has a string of 48 previous convictions for thefts across Ireland and the UK and is believed to have punched the ‘Argenteuil Basin with a Single Sail Boat’ by Monet which is valued at €10m to “get back at the State”.

The thief had claimed that he was feeling faint when he crashed into the 140-year-old masterpiece at the National Gallery.

CCTV footage captured Shannon falling towards the painting and then raising his hand before striking it.

Shannon, an antiques expert and French polisher by trade,

has built a criminal career targeting properties similar to Tinakilly House and National Trust properties across England, Scotland and Wales.

A few years after the raid on Tinakilly, Shannon travelled from Ireland to target English stately homes and in May 2009 was jailed for offences in that jurisdiction.

Shannon robbed six stately homes of antiques and paintings worth thousands of pounds on a “weekend spree” of stealing after travelling from Dublin to target famous buildings across the country, including Blenheim Palace and Chatsworth House in the UK. Together with an accomplice, he stole ornamental lions, porcelain vases, figurines, expensive books and even an antique walking stick from Belvoir Castle – which was identified as missing by the Duke of Rutland, plus books previously owned by Winston Churchill.

news in brief Customer night at Florence Fortunes FLORENCE Fortune’s, the newly opened Antique Shop in Bray is delighted to invite its customers along to an open night on December 11.

Enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and late night shopping on the night at Florence Fortune’s Antique Shop, Florence Road,

Craft market in Swann Hall

A CHRISTMAS craft market will be held in Swann Hall, St Patrick’s Church, Church Road, Greystones from 11am to 5pm.

Refreshments and light lunches available and admission is free.

Brian Meakin and Dermot Byrne

Santina Spitfire at Ladies Night Out Greystones

WELL known talented blues musicians, Brian Meakin and Dermot Byrne take to the stage together on December 12 at 9pm at the Hot Spot Music Club in Greystones.

Tickets cost €6/€8. With his slide guitar and harmonica, Dermot’s interpretation of roots and blues music has been highly acclaimed in the music press.

ADVERTISEMENT |7

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

We’ve listened - and we’re changing.

Last year EirGrid ran one of the country’s largest ever series of public consultations. We wanted to know what you thought about our plans for the development of the national electricity grid.

Many of you felt we did not do enough to inform communities, to listen to your concerns and to respond to your questions.

We have just published a thorough and independent review of our public consultation process, which is available on our website. It sets out where we fell short of what people expected from us and how we are responding.

We are now changing how we will work with communities so that together, we will ensure a safe, secure supply of electricity for Ireland, not just for today but for decades to come.

To find out more about EirGrid and our ongoing consultation process, visit www.eirgrid.com

Working with you for our energy future www.eirgrid.com

8 | NEWS wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

Giant snow globe hits Bray

By Peter Murphy

IF you are driving through Bray this Christmas you could be forgiven for thinking that it had been hit by a huge winter shower.

A giant snow globe measuring 25ft by 20ft has been placed at the Town Hall where Santa is in residence for the festive period.

The huge globe has its own TV and Christmas tree inside and lucky children who visit Santa will get a complimentary photograph with their family.

As part of the 40-minute magical experience, organised by Bray Chamber of Commerce, children can meet elves and Mrs Claus where they will have a story read to them before being taken to see Santa.

Santa will then give a gift to each child and pose for photographs as well. To book your visit, go to www.christmasinbray.com, opening times: 12pm- 6pm, December 6, 13/14 and 20/21 .

Bray Chamber of Commerce’s quest to find the perfect Christmas card for Bray was also a resounding success. Hundreds of great entries were received from local schoolchildren and Nicole

Luke Weir gets into the festive spirit inside the snow globe Sheehy from St Patrick’s NS in Bray was selected as the winner and received €250 for her school’s book fund and a voucher for herself.

Other category and voucher winners included Ethan Bradshaw from St Gerard’s Junior School (Cat 1), Rachel O’Brien from St Patrick’s NS

(Cat 2), Harvey O’Sullivan from St Gerard’s Junior School (Cat 3), and Paris McAteer from St Fergals Senior School (Cat 4). All winning entries will be on display in Santa’s Grotto at the Town Hall, along with a number of other highly commended entries.

the business and subsequently bought back the site from Groundview Ltd, have no connection to Groundview Ltd and the settlement does not relate to the Freeneys or any of their businesses.

Groundview’s settlement was over €1m in excess of the second highest settlement on the list, where only five settlements exceeded €1m.

Groundview Ltd, of 15 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2, was dissolved in 2008 before being resorted earlier this year. The settlement followed an offshore assets investigation case taken by the Revenue Commissioners.

The old Dawson’s amusements building was demolished in February 2013 to make way for 130 parking spaces.

This move came some years after plans to develop a ‘Riviera’

style project along the seafront strip on the site.

The building was erected in the 1980s amid controversy due to its appearance and its proximity to Bray Head.

Other plans to build apartments on the site, which operated as an amusement arcade for more than 50 years, have also been shelved. The second highest on the defaulters list was farmer Joseph P Clarke, from Carrowkeel, Beltra in Co Sligo, who made a settlement of €1.38 million for the underdeclaration of capital gains tax following a Revenue audit.

In third place was Dublin company director Frank O’Reilly, from Charlestown Complex, St Margaret’s Road in Finglas, who settled for €1.35 million again relating to the under-declaration of income tax.

Ex-owners of Dawsons owe €2.3m tax bill

By Michelle McGlynn

A FORMER seafront amusement business in Wicklow has topped the new list of tax defaulters published by the Revenue Commissioners.

The previous owners of Dawson’s Amusement Arcade on Bray Seafront made the largest settlement on the list of 107 companies and individuals.

Groundview Limited, whose directors are listed as Peter Courtney and Fergal Fogarty both with addresses in Howth, made a settlement of €2.39m that related to the under-declaration of income tax.

It is believed the pair owned Dawson’s almost a decade ago and the settlement relates to that period.

The well-known local Freeney family, who previously owned

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

ADVERTISING | 9

10 | OPINION

opinion&comment

Why I am saying no to McDonald’s

W

E are all citiznes.

We understand that some matters must be regulated, for public health or other reasons.

Banks are regulated — though that could have been done differently. Waste, effluent, and hazardous chemicals. Road safety. And that’s just a few.

Now a giant McDonalds is proposed, right beside three schools which will have about 1,800 students when all classes are running.

Do we think cigarettes should be legally on sale to kids in sweet shops, as they were until a few years ago? After all, parents, surely, should be explaining the hazards to their kids?

Do we want booze on sale to 12-yearolds? Is it not up to their parents to teach them not to drink until they are older?

Or maybe it would be OK to have heroin dealers outside school gates at finish times, as it’s the parents’ responsibility to ensure their kids don’t become smackheads?

An obesity epidemic is spreading among our children and young people. There are enormous health implications, including diabetes, cancer, behavioural problems, and heart disease. Due to the high fat, high sugar, high salt character of processed and takeaway food, a health bomb is in the making which will burden the public health service beyond breaking point if it continues to grow.

That’s one reason I’m objecting to McDonalds plonking an outlet at Blacklion just across the road from Temple Carrig secondary and the Educate Together and Gaelscoil primaries, an outlet that would be three times bigger than the one they asked for in 2013, but was refused.

For once, the State is behind me. Former Children’s Minister, Frances Fitzgerald, promised legislation to keep fast food outlets away from schools and parks, in conjunction with the Department of Health.

While there’s still no sign of it, the Minister for the Environment issued national policy Guidelines to planning authorities in June 2013 which state that they “shall seek to promote active and healthier lifestyles by ensuring that exposure of children to … foods that are high in fat, salt or sugar is reduced through careful consideration of the appropriateness and/or location of fast food outlets in the vicinity of schools and parks”.

So it’s clear that to protect public health, and reduce the risks to children and youth from these addictive processed foods,

Wicklow County Council should tell McDonald’s to take a hike. WCC needs to follow the then Greystones Town Council, which wrote to McDonald’s after their first attempt at Blacklion was rejected by Bord Pleanala, inviting them to apply for permission elsewhere in the district.

At its meeting on November 25, the new Municipal Council unanimously rejected having McDonald’s at Blacklion and lodged an official objection, paying its €20 fee like anyone else. (To object log onto http://bit.ly/McD-OBJECT, closing date is December 16).

There are other reasons why this must not pass. Increased traffic congestion around the Blacklion Centre, road safety issues, and the increased risk of accident to children walking or cycling from school or passing through the Centre car park; greater flood risks to residents in Redford Park in particular and Redford generally.

McDonald’s want their drive-through and restaurant to operate 24/7/365. Noise, an increase in anti-social behaviour — Blacklion Manor residents already complain incessantly to Gardai — litter and smells will blight this mostly residential neighbourhood.

And let’s look at the location — a gateway location, the north entrance to our charming town. A place that was voted World’s Most Liveable Community in the 2008 LivCom Awards.

If McDonald’s plants its two-storey, 624 square metre outlet on the green area at Blacklion crossroads, that award will never come our way again. And, as visitors approach from the north, their first and dominant impression of Greystones will be an architecturally undistinguished industrial-type building, a clone of many erected by the company across the UK, and which McDonald’s has made no effort to adapt to this spot.

Far from blending with the existing buildings, the design conflicts radically with their character and appearance — festooned with the golden arches, inyour-face signage, and littered with ugly menu boards and direction signs for drive-through customers. What will that say about Greystones? And what will it say about the county council if it permits this hideous, dangerous, and unnecessary monstrosity on this key site?!

Basil Miller and his family have lived in Greystones since 1998. He works as a communications consultant and strategist, mostly for non-profits and NGOs, and was a journalist, in Ireland and abroad, for over 25 years.

“A

THAT’S NOT AN OUTCOME MOST PEOPLE WOULD WELCOME BUT WE MAY WELL BRING IT ABOUT BECAUSE, WHEN IT COMES TO SHOPPING, WE ARE DEVOID OF SENTIMENT AND DISMISSIVE OF TRADITION.

HAVE YOU GOT SOMETHING TO SAY? IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO WRITE ON THIS PAGE, THEN CONTACT US e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie

with Basil Miller with Michael Wolsey

Use our shops - or we’ll lose our shops

battle has been raging in the past the few weeks over the future of our high streets. On one side are the traditional shops which have enlivened towns and cities for decades. Ranged against them are the forces of internet shopping, offering a service which is sometimes more convenient and often cheaper.

The Battle of Christmas 2014 is just one engagement in a protracted war. The final outcome is still years away. But it is not going well for the shops and I fear that when the gun smoke eventually clears we may be left with few of them.

That’s not an outcome most people would welcome but we may well bring it about because, when it comes to shopping, we are devoid of sentiment and dismissive of tradition.

It is 50 years and more since the last shopping upheaval of this magnitude. I witnessed that one as a child in Belfast where my great aunt Maggie had a draper’s shop in the west of the city.

Structurally, it differed very little from her house next door, or any of the other houses in that little terraced street. The front door had a bell which rang when a customer entered. The front parlour was split in two by a counter and the front window was slightly recessed to let some goods be displayed.

There were no mannequins in Maggie’s window. There wasn’t room for them.

And even if there had been, Maggie did not approve of such blatant displays of the human form. Her window dressing consisted of some of the wares laid flat on a shelf. Not the more risqué items such as long-johns or flannel knickers, but handkerchiefs, scarves, socks, perhaps a cardigan or, stretching daring to the limit, a vest and liberty bodice.

If you wanted to see more – and there wasn’t much more to see – you went in and spoke to Maggie who would dip into drawers and various cardboard boxes that sat around the place, and produce the rest of her salon’s range.

My aunt Ella worked in the shop and I always looked forward to Saturdays, the day she got paid, when she would bring me sweets or a comic; both, if I was lucky. If I was unlucky, I might be in bed before Ella got home, for Maggie’s shop was open all hours.

Christmas Eve was a particularly long day, with people making purchases right up to midnight. Next morning Ella would be full of tales of the late shoppers, particularly the men, who never crossed the door at any other time, but

who would come in, sometimes straight from the pub, to buy the wife’s Christmas present – “Ah sure you just pick something she’d like, Ella ... you’d have a better idea than me about that sort of thing.’’

Here were the two sides of local shopping in the late 1950s. On the one hand, it could not have been more convenient: a shop on your doorstep that practically never closed. On the other, the range of stock was poor and the display even worse. Maggie’s shop was cheaper than the downtown stores. But as people became a little more prosperous that slight price advantage mattered less and the shoppers voted with their feet and their purses in favour of city centre department glamour.

By the early Sixties, Maggie’s shop was gone along with hundreds like it across the city and hundreds more in Dublin, Bray, Greystones, Wicklow Town and Arklow - every urban centre in Ireland. Many bemoaned the loss, which was seen as a blow to the local community, indicating an end to neighbourliness and all things right and decent. But the people doing the moaning were often the same people who were now taking their business down town.

The simple fact of the matter was that Maggie and her ilk had not kept pace with the times. There was a new demand and they weren’t meeting it. They didn’t use such terms then, but, in truth, the market had spoken.

Now the stores that put Maggie out of business are under threat themselves and the market is trying to persuade us that internet is better.

I’d like to think we will close our ears to the market. If we don’t we will be the losers and our cities will be left without a heart. For make no mistake, if we don’t use our shops we will lose them. Their fate is in our hands. Shops are for buying and selling. They are not museums or art galleries; they are not for cultural expression. Either they do the business or they go out of business. I am not confident about their future.

I don’t think Maggie would have liked modern retailing. But she would have fully understood the law of the market.

Survival of the fittest was always the rule in her part of town.

Michael Wolsey is a former deputy editor of the Irish Independent, and sat on the judging panel for the National Newspaper of Ireland Journalism Awards.

OPINION| 11

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

anyotherbusiness

Have you got a story?

Then email thecaptain@wicklowvoice.ie

500 days and counting to next general election

W

ith less than 500 days until the next election (assuming t h e current government runs its full term) we are effectively in an extended election campaign from here on in to spring 2016. Remember that when you meet or have any dealings with politicians from now; they are in the shop window for your vote and should be tested accordingly.

Time to assess the likely contenders for the next government. Will Enda become the first Fine Gael leader ever to get returned as Taoiseach for a second term? Garret Fitzgerald never managed this. Will Fianna Fail recover even some of the massive losses they suffered in 2011? Will Sinn Fein be in government?

The way things are panning out, it looks to me like there will only be two options. A Fine Gael led coalition or a Sinn Fein led one. They are looking like being the two biggest parties in the country after spring 2016, with Sinn Fein gaining seats and Fine Gael losing them in comparison to 2011.

Enda is a shrewd operator and has his eye on a second term and the aforementioned place in history. Expect tax cuts of some form or other to help him secure his goal in the pre-election 2015 budget. But will it be enough?

And who could he go into coalition with? Labour are unlikely to be in possession of enough seats next time out. A Fine Gael government propped up a technical group of independents? A bit unwieldy, as the majority of independents with a chance of being elected are unlikely to be on the same wavelength as Fine Gael.

Perhaps the unthinkable will happen and Fine Gael and Fianna Fail will be forced into a partnership, civil war politics put aside, to keep Sinn Fein out and give Enda his second term?

Fine Gael are likely to have significantly more seats than Fianna Fail, even allowing for the former to lose some and the latter to gain some in comparison to the 2011 base. I’m sure, if a FG/FF coalition is on the cards,

By Captain Louis

Hozier in hosiery

There’s no getting away from Andrew Hozier Byrne this weather ... The Bray singer’s breakout hit Take Me to Church was the most streamed single on Spotify in 2014, the online music service said earlier this week. The anthem-like tune, which also has been nominated for Song of the Year at the 57th Grammy Awards, has had more than 87m streams to date on the streaming service and more than 40m views for the video version on YouTube. He has also just supplied a track to the soundtrack of the new season of Marco Polo (see page 12).But Mr Byrne is in need of some good news following the furore over his appearance at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in London last month. The Wickla’ star performed his tune fully clothed while various young models pranced around in their undies prompting a bit of feminist backlash wondering why Hozier wasn’t in his undies also? Now as much as we are all fans of Andrew, Hozier in hosiery is just something The Captain cannot contemplate ...

Nothing compares to Sinn Fein

AB Group Packaging of Blessington, one of Ireland’s biggest manufacturers of packaging products for the retail and food sectors, has signed a gas and renewable electricity deal with Irish energy supplier Vayu. Pictured are Gabriel McCabe, Business Unit Manager, AB Group Packaging Ireland and Kate Nolan, Energy Specialist at Vayu.

Brian Quigley FF will look for a rotation of the office of Taoiseach between their respective leaders during the lifetime of the government, but it probably won’t wash and Michael Martin would have to settle for being Tanaiste.

We’ve only ever had Fianna Fail or Fine Gael led governments. The fact that they have never been in together is immaterial, if you think of it. They are, to all intents and purposes, the same thing. Fianna Fail would have implemented the austerity package if it had been Fine Gael ousted for being in power when the bust happened.

Economic cycles are largely beyond our control in Ireland and

the roles of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are largely interchangeable over the various economic cycles we have had during our history as an independent nation.

Fianna Fail, if they hold the balance of power, could alternatively opt to put in Gerry Adams as Taoiseach. This is less likely to happen than a FF/ FG partnership, in my opinion, and would certainly be a bitter pill for the FF party faithful to swallow, what with the symbolism of 2016 and all that.

Maybe they mightn’t even have the favour to bestow, if Sinn Fein can go it alone with the support of independents.

That really would put the cat amongst the pigeons and completely rewrite our political history. Many people would wonder at the economic policies such a government would pursue, the fear being that the government would have been swept in on a tide of megaphone populism, with no triedand-tested economic policies or strategies. Taxing the rich on more than €100k? What if they all leave and take jobs with

them. Ask these questions of them next time they call around and just want to tell you how they opposed the water charges.

Is the country ready for Sinn Fein? It certainly looks that way. Martin McGuinness would have stood a better chance of becoming President if the race was a year or two later.

Like in the middle of the water charge debate. As it turned out the electorate gave serious consideration to electing him before getting cold feet during the latter stages of the campaign. The same thing doesn’t look like happening to Sinn Fein in the next general election, but who knows.

Their stance on and handling of issues like water charges have strengthened their status as a party being seriously considered for government.

In Wicklow it’s hard to argue with John Brady and Simon Harris getting elected. After that who knows.

Let’s see what happens, ask the right questions of all the runners and riders over the next year and play our part in shaping our future.

HO Ho Ho ... Just as the festive season kicks into action Sinn Féin got an unexpected gift in the form of Sinead O’Connor earlier this week. The rock star and resident of Bray has announced that she’s applied to join Sinn Féin and, O’Connor, who is no stranger to controversy, posted on her blog that she plans to join the opposition party as she would “like to see a proper socialist Ireland”. The shaven-headed singer has also suggested that Gerry Adams step down in the wake of sex abuse claims levelled against the party in recent weeks. She said the “elders of Sinn Féin are going to have to make ‘the supreme sacrifice’ and step down shortly in the same way the last Pope did”. In the lengthy post O’Connor said that the 1916 Proclamation had not been honoured and said Sinn Féin is the only party that is “gonna give anyone a chance of bringing to fruition paragraphs three and four of the Proclamation”. I doubt somehow Sinead would dare to tear up an image of Gerry on live television as she did with the Pope in the 1990s ...

We are all Independents! I’m not ...

C’mon Stephen, put us out of our misery ... despite the assertions in some national newspapers, Stephen Donnelly has not, as yet, agreed to join an alliance of Independents lead by Shankill-resident Shane Ross. At the weekend, The Sunday Times reported that Ross had “already declared independents Stephen Donnelly, Finian McGrath and John Halligan as being on board”. However, a source told The Captain that this was most definitely a case of premature speculation and that the Independent TD for Wickla’ had not decided his course of action. The whole situation reminds The Captain of the very funny scene from Monty Python’s comedy Life Of Brian: Brian: You’ve got to think for yourselves! You’re all individuals!

Crowd: Yes! We’re all individuals!

Brian: You’re all different!

Crowd: Yes, we are all different!

Man in crowd: I’m not...

One thing’s for sure, Shane is no messiah ...

Brilliant for Boorman and Wickla’

We are very proud of our thriving film industry in Wickla’, so it was great to see one of very own (almost) John Boorman being honoured at the British Independent Film awards.

The long-time resident of Annamoe received the Special Jury Prize at the BIFA’s last weekend and considering many of his films have been made in the locale, it’s a great boost for this county. Boorman, who has directed a total of 22 films including Zardoz, Excalibur, A Tiger’s Tail, The Tailor of Panama and The General which were all filmed in Wicklow. We’re not sure if the great one was pleased or not as the English-born auteur is notoriously grumpy ... Ba’h humbug all round then!

1 2 3 4 5

12 | WHAT’S HOT

TECHIE TIPS FOR CHRISTMAS WE have all been there.

You spend weeks - months really - getting prepared for Christmas morning and by the time we fall into bed on Christmas Eve we think we can relax.

But inevitably when we are enjoying the pure joy of the children opening Santa’s carefully chosen presents and then it hits us.

It used to just be batteries that we had to remember (but always forgot) but now as the presents get more technological, there are more things to prepare for to ensure Christmas morning runs smoothly.

Luckily, Wicklow PC Repair have put together a handy checklist for you so you can just sit back and relax come December 25. Well, at least until it’s time to cook the dinner.

• Check your broadband is up to scratch and your package has enough bandwidth for all the devices and consoles.

Nothing worse than a Playstation or Xbox hogging all the bandwidth.

• Pre-buy covers for the tablets and phones. There are a huge number of devices dropped over the Christmas time and broken screens can be prevented with good covers. If the kids are getting devices from Santa, ask family members to get them covers as presents - this can save hundreds of euro for screen and antenna replacements.

• Ask Santa to test and charge all of the devices before he leaves the North Pole.

• Laptops can be a nightmare to start up so make sure to get Santa to switch on and load software before Christmas morning.

Should your Christmas go a little awry when it comes to gadgets don’t worry as Wicklow PC Repair offer a no fix - no fee PC, laptop, iPhone, Mac, broadband and printer repair service.

They can also offer data recovery service for PCs and laptops so you need not have a full meltdown!

For those of you who haven’t finished their Christmas shopping, Wicklow PC Repair have all the gadgets and devices that your loved ones are wishing for and all at amazing prices.

So what are you waiting for? Get shopping!

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

CAR IDEA of the week A+ SERVICE CENTRE 1a Oldcourt, Industrial Estate, Boghall Road, Bray, 01 2866815 Recent changes to the penalty points system now means that you will receive three penalty points if you are found to be driving without an up-to-date NCT certificate. Don’t risk getting points on your licence, take advantage of A+ Service Centre’s free pre-NCT check today. They look after all makes and models of car. They offer free collection and return from work or home and free drop and collection to the dart station between 7am and 7pm. As the weather is getting colder and the snow threatens make sure that you don’t find yourself caught at the side of the road by booking a service with your one stop service centre today.

BUSINESS IDEA of the week BUSINESS GROWTH SEMINAR Glenview Hotel, Glen of the Downs, December 16, 5.30pm-7pm Join this very enlightening seminar and learn the best way to grow your business. There will be time for open networking as you enjoy a tea or coffee before the speakers begin. Business mentor, Alan Kelly will be the first to give a presentation. Following this, Dave Howick from Fitzsimons Howick McEvoy will outline three business growth strategies to increase sales and profits. Local business owners Phil Cullen, Lisa Stacey and Cathal O’Sullivan will be sharing their secrets to success in a panel interview. Finally, there will be a question and answer session between the panel and the audience.

There is a nominal charge of €15 per person and places are limited to 30 per seminar. To reserve your place email dave@fhm.ie or phone Aoife or Dave on 01 2869977.

EDUCATION IDEA of the week BRAY GRINDS INSTITUTE The Royal Hotel, Main Street, Bray, 01 2016365/087 9292593 Now is the perfect time for exam students to take the time to revise everything they have covered so far before they head back to classes in the new year and the stress of the mocks begins. Bray Grinds Institute are running Christmas Intensive Revision Courses for both Junior and Leaving Cert students. If you book a place before December 18 you can cover two subjects for the price of one. Bray Grinds Institute was established by primary school teacher, Claire Ryan who puts an emphasis on maintaining a low student to teacher ratio. This ensures that each student receives the time and attention that they require in order to achieve their goals. Students are provided with superb, up-to-date and insightful notes that provide exclusive and practical tips for each subjects.

TV SHOW of the week MARCO POLO Netflix, December 12, 8am In a world replete with greed, betrayal, sexual intrigue and rivalry, Marco Polo is based on the famed explorer’s adventures in Kublai Khan’s court in 13th century China. The title character is played by Italian newcomer Lorenzo Richelmy. The story opens with the Polo family’s three-year trek from Venice to Mongolia - after which Marco’s father offers him to Kublai Khan (Benedict

BUSINESS of the week VIKING ENERGY PLUS GLASS Viking Business Park, Whitemill Industrial Estate, Co. Wexford, 053 9144111 Did you know that by installing Viking Energy Plus Glass in your existing windows you can reduce your heat loss by 75%? This impacts the amount of energy you use and your heating bills. Low-e glass such as Viking Energy Plus Glass will let more free heat from the sun come in and reflect heat back into the room. They guarantee the most energy efficient unit available. Options available include argon or krypton gas in the cavity as well as warm edge spacer bar, solar control glass, self cleaning glass, safety and security glass, anti fade glass, integrated venetian blinds, georgian and decorative options. They can offer home-owners the opportunity to upgrade their existing glass without replacing their window frames. Their effective and efficient glazing system can be completed in one day by highly experienced installers with no fuss and no costly redecoration expense. With over 30 years experience in upgrading windows across Ireland, they have thousands of referrals from satisfied customers. Call today for a free no obligation survey.

Wong) as a servant. This series marks Netflix’s first foray into scripted dramatic television project and they have certainly gone big with their attempt. Filmed primarily in Kazakhstan and at Malaysia’s Pinewood Studios, it is reported that Netflix paid out $90m for the 10-episode first season. The show encompassed a cast and crew of some 800 people who spoke 26 languages. Our own Hozier features on the soundtrack and was used in the incredibly impressive trailer released last month.

6 7 8 9 10

WHAT’S HOT| 13

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

MOVIE of the week THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES Gaiety Cinema, Arklow The wait is finally over as the final installment of The Hobbit franchise hits screens this week. The trilogy reaches its climax with an epic showdown to end them all. Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and the dwarves failed in their plan to kill Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch) in his Lonely Mountain lair. Now they watch helplessly as the dragon flies off to rain fiery vengence on Laketown. Only Bard (Luke Evans) can stop the enraged beast now, using the last remaining dragon-slaying black arrow. Gandalf (Ian McKellen), meanwhile, has been imprisoned at Dol Guldor by the Necromancer. The stage is set for the climactic battle for Smaug’s hoard. This sees goblins and wargs take on the dwarves, elves, men and giant eagles in one almighty conflict. And that’s before you take into account the legion of orcs unleashed by the Necromancer. The film also features Wicklow’s own stuntman Peter Dillon as Balin - you can read our interview with him in the December 4 edition.

HOROSCOPES with Siobhan Moore Whelan

CHRISTMAS FUN of the week ARKLOW CHRISTMAS MARKET AND SANTA DASH The Park and Bandstand, Main Street, Arklow, December 13 and 14 Christmas will be well and truly in full swing in Arklow when Santa comes to town to meet with all the children in Arklow. The market will take place on Saturday from 10am until 5pm while Sunday it will begin an hour later at 11am and finish at 5pm. Santa will arrive at his magical Christmas Grotto at 12pm each day and visits are free. There will

be stall filled with toys, crafts, clothes and footwear. For your little Elsa or Anna there will be a Frozen themed stall. There will be hot food served all day and a free raffle as well. The event is a fundraiser for Arklow Pride and it is an outdoor event so be sure to wrap up nice and warm.

Meanwhile the Annual Santa Dash fun run/walk will take place on December 13 and will begin at St. Saviour’s Church at 2pm and finish at the bandstand. Throw on your santa suit/santa hat/Christmas jumper and help to bring some added Christmas cheer to Arklow’s Main Street.

CHRISTMAS MARKET of the week WATERFALL FARM CHRISTMAS MARKET Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow, December 13, 10am-4pm

COOKING IDEA of the week CIARA’S KITCHEN CHRISTMAS COOKING DEMO Delgany, Co. Wicklow, 086 3848148, December 17-20 Ciara trained at the world famous Ballymaloe Cooking School and has cheffed for Avoca and Brambles.

To prepare you for Christmas, Ciara’s December demonstration will cover eight dishes to get you through Christmas day or any other winter dinner party.

The demo will cover two canapés, a starter, soup, two sides, dessert and dessert canapé. There will be plenty to eat, a glass of wine and copies of all the recipes included in the price of €35 per person. December 19 and 20 are available for a group booking of 7-10 people. Book now to avoid disappointment and you are guaranteed to go home with a full belly and some new food knowledge.

GEMINI- 2,9,28,36,40,46 Unexpected meeting; which you can bring proof of your entire creativity, in which you can display your talents and skills.

CANCER-1,14,18,21,43,46 Interesting twists and turns on the way;be receptive & gentle on a romantic level. Nostalgia time.

VIRGO-7,19,25,23,27,33 Fantastic month Virgo;select your priorities and act only in directions that bring you clear benefits.

GIG of the week

Watson ACE is the name of Colm Lynch’s new musical collective, consisting of some of the top musicians in Ireland today. Lynch himself has been described as “a powerhouse live performer, capable of summoning up the kind of fiery passion reminiscent

TAURUS-10,15,18,25,38,44 It is recommended to focus on your projects; build a viable strategy to help you achieve an important goal.

LEO-2,4,26,36,37,38 All well and good, but your loved ones can overshadow playful mood. Not a problem because “fun” is your middle name.

The charming Waterfall Farm, in the distinctly beautiful Glencree valley, are hosting their increasing popular Christmas Market where Santa Claus will be meeting children from 11am to 2pm in his enchanting grotto. Each child will receive a small gift and reindeer food. Local shepherd Donie Anderson will delight with his demonstrations of sheep herding and duck herding with his talented Wicklow collie Jess! Finding that perfect gift is easy with craft stalls boasting hand-turned wooden bowls, handmade pottery and ingenious metalwork gifts made from horseshoes. Foodies will love the Wicklow honey and the extremely more-ish handmade cakes and puddings. While Christmas decorations, skin care products, children’s clothing and textiles are sure to catch the eye. Children will be captivated

by Tallulah the pet sheep and her friends and can enjoy storytelling, facepainting in the Children’s Arts Corner. Entry and parking free.

WATSON ACE The Harbour Bar, Bray Seafront, December 18

ARIES-14,24,28,36,39,46 December 2014 will favor creation, studies, information, editing, communication and movement. Physical energy will overflow and need to be expressed.

of Springsteen, Van Morrison or The Waterboys”. It is safe to say that this same passion can be found in Watson ACE. With a debut album on the way produced by renowned, Swedish Producer, Adam Kviman, Watson ACE are ones to watch. They will be bringing their stylish brand of melodic rock to The Harbour Bar this week and you’d be crazy to miss it.

LIBRA-19,21,35,38,42 Venus & Jupiter bring great optimism which is contagious.

Your social life will be so busy you have lots to choose from.

SCORPIO-7,9,13,26,39,42 A time of reconnection and reconciliation on all levels.

Express your feeling and share some truths with a loved one.

SAGITTARIUS-10,15,18,25,38,44 You are so tuned in this month nothing will get past you. Come out as it’s play time Sagittarius!

CAPRICORN-3,6,13,22,26,39 Your month is off to a fun start with a very romantic interlude.

Be serious about what it is you really want.

AQUARIUS-6,24,28,36,38,40 December brings a serious metamorphosis of yourself.

Reevaluate your value systemyou are unique.

PISCES-6,15,16,29,32,40 A surprise awaits you Pisces.

Stay away from excesses though as you will get tired easily.

Horoscopes with Siobhan Moore Whelan - Live Psychic & Medium ring 1580997207.

Over 18’s with bill payers permission - entertainment purposes. Calls cost €2.44 per minute and may vary on other networks.

14 | NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

news in brief Coast action day BRAY Coastcare are holding a meeting at the Raheen Car Park on December 13 from 12-3pm. Volunteers wanted and Bray Coastcare will provide gloves, pickers and bags etc.

Irish Hospice ONLY 25% of people in Wicklow die at home according to a new report from the Irish Hospice Foundation.

The report reveals the chances of dying at home or in hospital are dictated by where you live in Ireland.

Library talk

ON December 19, James Scannell, Bray Cualann Historical Society, will present a seasonal lecture ‘Christmas 1914 in Bray ’ at 11.30am in Bray Public Library. All welcome and admission free.

Wreath candles SPECIAL packs of Advent Wreath Candles are now available at Brady’s Homecare, Greystones. Packs contain all the special coloured candles needed to make a wreath and cost €11.50.

Audrey Gaffney with Santa Ray Kelly at Ladies Night Out Greystones

Data of St Kilian’s teachers leaked in online breach

By Michelle McGlynn

AN investigation is currently underway regarding a largescale data breach involving more than 1,000 teachers, including those from St Kilian’s in Bray.

The Data Protection Commissioner is looking into a security breach that affected teachers who signed up for a phone scheme offered by O2.

The phone logs of members of the scheme were made visible through their web portal due to what O2 are calling a “clerical error”.

The records available displayed bank account numbers, home addresses and phone numbers.

The details of calls made by the account holder included the time of the call, the call duration and the call or text recipient’s phone number or email address.

It is not believed that there is any risk involved for any staff

or the pupils of St. Kilian’s as a result of this incident.

St. Kilian’s did not wish to comment on the breach when contacted by the Wicklow Voice.

A number of schools were affected alongside St Killian’s including Wesley College in Dublin, the Royal and Prior School in Donegal, Lycée Français d’Irlande in Dublin, St. Patrick’s in Navan, St. Mary’s in Edenderry and Glanstal Abbey School in Limerick.

In addition to these schools, a creche, two officials from the Department of Education and a phone registered with the Mid Western Cancer Foundation were also affected.

The phone network, which was recently bought by Three, have said that there were two of more than 1,000 members who signed up for the programme who were allocated administer level access.

The “clerical error” allowed the administrator accounts to

view billing information for other members.

The network could not confirm whether the error has occurred in any other group schemes but stated that “normal account access levels” had been restored to the two customers identified once the incident was brought to their attention.

O2 expained that they provide “affinity programmes to a number of corporate customers.

The one provided to schools and teachers was provided to the Joint Managerial Body, which represents a number of voluntary secondary schools Ireland, since 2010.”

This is not the first time O2 customers have experienced a breach of their personal data.

In December 2012, the mobile phone operator lost a tape which contained “a snapshot of information” relating to their 1.3 million customers held by the company’s internal system.

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

ADVERTISING| 15

16 | NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

HOW TO BEAT THE BURGLARS Homes

with Clodagh Doyle (info@wicklowvoice.ie)

U N F O R T U N AT E LY, intruders can strike at any time but with Christmas on the horizon it tends to hold more attraction for break-ins. It is essential that you keep your home as secure as possible in a bid to combat what usually is a highly stressful and traumatic experience. By taking some time to security check your home and by making a few vital changes could really make a difference.

• Alarms may see obvious but you would be surprised how many homes either don’t have one installed or have one but don’t bother to use it. You could choose to securely link your alarm to a staffed remote monitoring service or the Gardaí, who will contact you or a chosen key holder to let you know if there is a problem.

Maryse Doyle and Hazel Doyle at Azure during Ladies Night Out Greystones Panic buttons are also worth installing.

• CCTV can range from a wired system plugging straight into a monitor, to a wireless system, where images can be transmitted using digital technology. A protocol CCTV allows cameras to send images to your computer router which in turn can give you access to footage of your property

via the internet or from your smartphone.

• Avoid obvious signs that no one is at home by perhaps having a trusted key holder to ensure bins are put in and out, post and junk mail are picked up, lighting is turned on and off and blinds and curtains are opened and closed.

• Individual window locks provide added security.

• Reinforced glass may be a good idea on less exposed ground floor windows.

• Sliding glass doors and double doors are regular breakin points so installing multi-bolt locks are highly recommended.

• Entry gates should be closed or better still locked.

• Door locks, one is not enough – you need at least two and use them.

• Your letter box should have a cage fitted to avoid “fishing” for keys.

• Keys hidden under mats, rocks or plant pots - not a clever idea.

• Motion sensor lighting will alert you or neighbours to movement outside.

• Hedges and foliage can act as a great hiding place so get these trimmed.

• Ladders, garden furniture and wheelie bins should be put away as these can be used to climb to open windows.

• Tools left out could be used to smash a window or gain door entry.

• Secure documents should be hidden in the attic or locked in a filing cabinet.

• Lock your car turning your wheels into the curb and locking the wheel.

• Outhouses and sheds should be locked.

• Valuables should never be left on display.

• Attics are the ideal location for hiding valuables and are off putting for burglars for fear of getting trapped.

• Guard dogs still prove a vital deterrent when it comes to home security. Some dogs will at least alert you to activity while others will protect your home at all costs.

• Social Media is not the place to highlight that you are going away.

Don’t allow burglars steal your peace of mind along with your possessions. By dedicating some time and effort into securing your home will hopefully prevent a break-in or at least make it difficult for them - which should offer you some satisfaction.

Selling? Letting? Moving?

Improving?

Let the Professional House Doctors take care of it! Get in touch on 086 8159531, 01 2548070 or e-mail us at info@placelift.ie

20-litre fuel drums now available from O’Neill’s Oil Advertorial

YOU won’t find a better bargain as we head into winter than 100 litres of Kerosene for €105 with O’Neill’s Oil and Solid Fuels.

This 100% Irish and family run business has built its success through offering quality assured products, competitive prices and an exceptional delivery service.

Their main depot in Rathnew is a drive-in fuel depot that offers 20 litre drums of Kerosene, gas oil, road diesel and solid fuels.

The 20 litre drums can now be collected from their yard.

The O’Neill family are so confident that their prices will not be beaten that they have a Price Match Promise.

HAVE YOU GOT A STORY FOR THE WICKLOW VOICE? EMAIL INFO@WICKLOWVOICE.IE

New estate agency opens in Wicklow

Advertorial

BAKER Vance opened their office in the Town Hall Development in Bray last week.

The two principals Rhona Baker and Nicola Vance were both born and bred in Bray and are extremely enthusiastic about their new venture.

Rhona and Nicola have known each other since primary school and both graduated from Bolton Street in the 90’s.

They share varied and extensive experience in all aspects of residential and commercial property having worked in some of the largest estate agents in Dublin. They are very excited about bringing their experience and expertise to their home town.

On a personal level, Rhona and Nicola have been sellers and purchasers as well as landlords and tenants. As such, they understand the emotions involved when entering into a property transaction and are well placed to offer guidance during the whole process. They are committed to offering honest, pro-

Nicola Vance and Rhona Baker in their new offices fessional advice based on their excellent local knowledge.

Baker Vance are licenced by the Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA) and are Members of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI). They can also offer a valuation service to Banks and Solicitors.

Baker Vance will be servicing

Bray, North Wicklow and South Dublin so if you need advice on Residential or commercial Sales or Lettings please contact Rhona or Nicola without obligation on (01) 2865300.

When you appoint Baker Vance you will be dealing directly with one of the principles and a top class service is guaranteed!

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

ADVERTISING | 17

18 | LIFESTYLE

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

my favourite things Dress, Heatons, €25

WHAT’S HOT

with Michelle McGlynn info@wicklowvoice.ie Fur trim cardigan, Monsoon, €75

Tan boots, Penneys, €18 Cardigan €40, Polo €20, Jeans €25, all Dunnes

Jacket €50, trousers €25, shirt & tie set €11, scarf €12, all Tesco

Dress, Miss Selfridge, €80

Christmas jumper, Penneys, €21

Sweater €35, Beanie €15, Next

Jumper, Debenhams, €57

Jumper, M&S, €45

Parka, Dunnes, €50

Beth Merriman and Louise Byrne at Brooke & Shoals during Ladies Night Out Greystones Greystones has a brand new luxury hair and beauty salon – ZERO ONE. Located at the seafront side of Burnaby Park, where the Hot Spot Music Club was situated, ZERO ONE Salon specialise in luxury hair extensions, Aveda colour, up-styles, braids, nails, lashes and brows. ZERO ONE’s highly qualified team of staff include leading hair extension expert, Edel Kavanagh, L’oreal colour award finalist Zoe Kelly, cutting specialist Danielle Pierce, Brow and Lash artist Emily Adams and nail technician Alina Suciu. Find ZERO ONE on FB at facebook.com/zeroonesalon or call 0873451537 to book your appointment. Pictured are owner Sara Reynolds and Edele Kavanagh of ZERO ONE at Ladies Night Out Greystones

LIFESTYLE| 19

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

recipes

Peter Byrne

CHRISTMAS PUDDING

wine choice ALIANCA DAO RESERVA SANGIOVESE, ARMIGERO RISERVA 2011 DOC Abruzzo, €14.99 per bottle (on offer), La Touche Wines Greystones

INGREDIENTS

• 225g/8oz golden caster sugar • 225g/8oz vegetarian suet • 340g/12oz sultanas • 340g/12oz raisins • 225g/8oz currants • 110g/4oz candied peel, chopped • 110g/4oz plain flour • 110g/4oz fresh white breadcrumbs • 55g/2oz flaked almonds • 1 lemon, zest only • 5 eggs, beaten • 1 level tsp ground cinnamon • 1 level tsp mixed spice • 5g/1 level tsp freshly grated nutmeg • pinch of salt • 150ml/5fl oz brandy or rum

METHOD

Lightly grease 4x600ml/1 pint or 2x1.2 litre/2 pint pudding basins.

Mix together all the dry ingredients.

Stir in the eggs and brandy and mix well.

Spoon the mix into basins.

Put a circle of baking parchment and foil over the top of each basin and tie securely with string. Make a string

handle from one side of the basin to the other so it is easier to pick the basin out of the pan after cooking.

Put the basins in a large steamer of boiling water and cover with a lid. Boil for 5-6 hours, topping the boiling water up from time to time, if necessary. If you do not have a steamer, put the basins in a large pan on inverted saucers on the base. Pour in boiling water to come a third of the way up the sides of the pudding bowls. Cover and steam as before.

Cool. Change the baking parchment and foil covers for fresh ones and tie up as before.

Store in a cool cupboard until Christmas Day. To serve, steam for two hours and serve with brandy butter, rum sauce, cream or homemade custard.

Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel

Up front fruit expression of cherry and blackcurrant, full bodied and warm on the palate, with vanilla-oak tones and a firm spicy finish.

A very approachable, easy-drinking wine, yet with good structure and balance.

Wild about books Wildlife

with Justin Ivory

(info@wicklowvoice.ie) IT’S that time of year again.

Time to make wish lists for Santa and time to buy gifts for your nearest and dearest. What better gift is there to give or receive then the gift of reading through a good book. For the nature lovers among you there is a fantastic selection of quality wildlife books by Irish authors to choose from. Below are 5 of my current favourites: My First Book of Irish Animals

By Juanita Browne and illustrated by Aoife Quinn.

Published by Juanita Browne, Browne Books €13.99 This is a picture book aimed at introducing young children to the wonderful world of Irish wildlife. Aoife Quinn’s gorgeous illustrations will capture the imagination of young and old alike. Filled with fascinating facts on a range of Irish species including: red fox, pine marten, badger, various species of bats, deer, seals, whales and dolphins; there is enough here to keep a wide range of age groups entertained

and educated.

Irish Bats in the 21st Century

By Niamh Roche, Tina Aughney, Ferdia Marnell and Mathieu Lundy Published by Bat Conservation Ireland €30.00 This just recently published tome is the first of its kind dedicated to Ireland’s most diverse group of terrestrial mammals. Detailed species accounts for all nine confirmed resident species cover population trends, distribution maps, roost selection, habitat types and available biometric data. Other chapters give the background to batwork in Ireland and describe the methods used for identifying and surveying these fascinating creatures.

As a long time volunteer on three of the bat monitoring schemes, this book is top of my Christmas list.

The Birds of Ireland - A Field Guide Jim Wilson and Mark Carmody €15 This little gem of a book is the first photographic identification guide to the birds of Ireland. Over 260 species

are shown in various plumages associated with age, season and sex through 1600 wonderful photographs from the lens of Irish bird photographer Mark Carmody. The accompanying concise, informative text is by Jim Wilson, a regular contributor to the Mooney Goes Wild radio show.

Doorstep Wilderness - A Wilder Side of Dublin

By Paul Hughes The Collins Press €24.99 This book captures, through the beautiful photographs of Paul Hughes, the wonderful array of wildlife that plays out its dramas on and around the River Dodder in Dublin through the four seasons.

Being in the habit of taking a daily stroll down by the Dodder in my lunch break with my binoculars in tow, I have been treated to wonderful sights of Kingfishers, Dippers and Grey Wagtails to name but a few. I never ceased to be amazed the variety of wildlife to be seen in the heart of our capital city. Paul Hughes has down a magnificent job of documenting that wildlife in this book. It would make a fabulous present for anybody interested in wildlife or photography.

20 | SERVICES

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

classifieds

BUYING? SELLING? CONTACT ONE OF OUR TEAM TODAY

e: info@wicklowvoice.ie w: www.wicklowvoice.ie

BUYING? SELLING? CONTACT ONE OF OUR TEAM TODAY

e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5556 or 01 901 5557

ADVERTISING| 21

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

CHRISTMAS IN CASTLE STREET

By Michelle McGlynn

LADIES WORKOUT EXPRESS 4 Castle Street, 1st floor, Bray, 01 2828707 LADIES Workout Express are the only gym in Bray who cater exclusively to women of all ages and fitness levels.

They have a complete range of fitness and exercise equipment designed exclusively for women.

The people at LWE Bray know that the time you spend in the gym is your time and they seek to ensure that every member gets the individual attention they need and that everything runs smoothly.

They offer a variety of classes and due to demand they will be running another Biggest Loser Express from July 21.

With a hairdresser and salon in-house what more could a woman want?

THE WINDOW & DOOR CENTRE No.4, Superquinn Centre, Castle Street, 01 2768533 Make your home better with The Window and Door Centre. Choose from over 50 triple glazed composite doors.

Whether you’re looking for a modern design or more of a traditional look, they have something to suit you. All of their windows are A rated energy efficient. Interior doors are professionally fitted by qualified carpenters. They offer repair services including door handles and locks, replacing ‘fogged’ doubleglazed windows, door handles and locks as well as general service work for windows and doors.

Ian Donnelly from Bray TV at the business expo on Castle Street last weekend

FESTIVE GREETINGS FROM SEXTONS

After over 60 years in the business we thank our thousands of loyal customers for their support during good times and bad.

We enjoyed meeting and doing business with our customers and have many happy memories.

Every Christmas season we were very busy with sales of Irish Farm grown Christmas Trees.

During January and February each year we were always

busy exporting Irish souvenir goods to Canada USA and the Caribbean.

It was important that we export Shamrock Seed and other Irish goods to reach the States in time for the St Patrick Day Sales.

We conclude by wishing all our customers a thank you and best wishes for Christmas and new year.

Paul and Aine Sexton.

HAVE YOU GOT A STORY FOR THE WICKLOW VOICE? THEN EMAIL US AT INFO@WICKLOWVOICE.IE

Paul Neal and Derek Mc Govern at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Delgany

22 | SPORT

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

Wicklow rugby schools face tough cup draw

By Michelle McGlynn

WICKLOW’S two rugby school teams, St Gerard’s and Presentation College, both in Bray, have their work cut out for them in the New Year as they compete in the Leinster Junior and Senior Schools Cup. In the Junior section, St Gerard’s will face a tough challenge when they face Dublin’s Belvedere College while Pres Bray are up against Kilkenny College.

The first round of the Leinster Schools Junior Cup will commence in February following the conclusion of the Fr Godfrey Cup. The senior competitions will kick off with the Vinnie Murray Cup in the week beginning January 4.

If the Garden County’s two teams win or finish runner up in the Vinnie Murray Cup,

sport in brief Wicklow Garden County Academy THE U13 squad have finished activities for the 2014 season.

Watch this space in the New Year for news of the 2015 schedule.

The U14 squad will finish the season on December 13, with a final S&C session in Ballinakill.

The U15 S&C program has come to an end for the Winter break.

This squad have shown significant improvements in recent weeks and look forward to the transition to the 2015 U16 squad.

The U16 squad will finish the season on December 13, with a final S&C session in Ballinakill.

Hugh Kenny’s squad are finalising preparations for the upcoming fixture versus Wexford Schools.

The match will be played in Ballinakill on December 20 at

they will secure a place in the Leinster Schools Senior Cup proper. Vinnie Murray Cup holders St Gerard’s face Wilson’s Hospital in the opening round, with the Bray school and Castleknock expected to fight it out for a qualifying place in the bottom half of the draw, leaving Pres Bray and King’s Hospital the most fancied for the second qualifying place in the bottom half of the draw.

Both main cups will have that rolling element built in for the third year running.

Should the teams qualify from the Vinnie Murray Cup they will find themselves battling either St Andrew’s College or Clongowes Wood College in a bid for the Senior Cup title.

The draw was carried out

by Leinster players Daragh Fanning (St Mary’s), Luke McGrath (St Michael’s),

Brendan Macken (Blackrock) and Cian Healy (Belvedere) in the splendid setting of the House of Lords, College Green.

Setanta Sports will broadcast eight games in total, with more matches than ever set to be played on the newly installed artificial pitch at Donnybrook.

The Junior Cup final will be held on March 22 while the Senior Cup decider will be played on St Patrick’s Day as usual.

In Munster, St Clement’s have already caused a big upset in the Senior Cup qualifier when beating highly fancied Bandon Grammar 17-5 in Fermoy.

In Connacht, the round-robin league format will again be in operation with League winners Garbally College looking to retain their title.

The Ulster Cup first round proper kicks off January 10.

1pm. The team will be aiming to repeat the good performances of last year’s squad in the Leinster ‘A’ Schools Championship.

Éire Óg Greystones

Bray Wheelers CC

THE Christmas Youth Races will take place on December 14 from 10am at the Bray Wheelers Clubhouse, Boghall Road, Bray.

There will be grass racing and entertainment for striders, under 6, under 8, under 10 and under 12.

Prizes will be given for all categories.

Enniskerry GAA THE annual Christmas charity GAA match will take place on December 28 with an 11am throw in.

It’s a minimum €5 a head to play and all proceeds will go to the old folks association in Enniskerry.

There will be special guest appearances in the game from self proclaimed “club legends” so spread the word and come down to enjoy a bit of craic.

THE Monster Christmas Draw will take place in the Carrig Inn, Killincarrig on December 12 at 9pm.

There are 14 wonderful prizes to be won and there will be a number of spot prizes on the night.

A book of six tickets is €5 or else they are €1 per ticket.

Tickets can be bought online at www.myclubfinances.com.

Greystones Hockey Club THIS weekend marks the last week of hockey until the New Year.

It will be a Christmas Hockey stick day so put on your creative thinking caps and decorate your stick.

Coaches will be festively dressed too and there will be fun and sweets.

They are welcoming new junior players from January and will be starting back on January 4 at 10am in Charlesland.

WANT TO GIVE YOUR CLUB A VOICE? EMAIL YOUR NOTES TO INFO@WICKLOWVOICE.IE

SPORT| 23

December 11 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

insideback

with Brian Quigley

In sport, it’s good to have a Plan B EX-Liverpool and England goalkeeper David James made the headlines recently for the wrong reasons.

Despite his playing career coinciding with the time when English soccer started paying out to players like a fruit machine, he was declared bankrupt, selling off his possessions to the highest bidder.

James earned upwards of £20m sterling in an illustrious playing career that also allowed him operate as a pundit, investor and model.

Now it is all gone.

He was forced to sell his soccer and non-soccer memorabilia and other items to pay a large tax bill to HM Revenue and Customs, amongst other debts.

It would be sad to think of any of Wicklow’s sporting greats ending up in a dire situation such as this.

Eamon Darcy, Fionnuala Britton, Katie Taylor, Gary O’Toole, Reggie Corrigan and Ed Joyce are some of our biggest sporting names past and present

and they will earn or have earned varying amounts from their careers and associated opportunities, depending on the profile of their sport and the era they operated in.

A sportperson needs to make the most of their earning potential during their (usually short) time at the top, and these earnings need to be invested wisely so that they can fund the long retirement a sportsperson has, given that you are still relatively young when you finish competing.

In the case of a lot of footballers in England who end up bankrupt or worse, a common theme is bad investment of earnings and an inability to cut their cloth to measure when the good times end.

If you try to keep living (when you retire) the high life you had when on big wages, your funds won’t be long dwindling.

Believe it or not, there are 150 ex-Premier League players in prison in the UK at present, according to Xpro the

professional players charity, mostly for drug dealing – the quickest and easiest way to try to maintain the income they had as top pros.

It helps if you have something to fall back on.

A lot of players who go over to England now to play soccer from Irish schoolboy set-ups pursue a dual strategy.

They try to make it in soccer while keeping up their studies.

If they make it, well and good.

If not, they have an education to fall back on, and usually a League of Ireland career to soften the blow of not making the Premier League.

It’s good to have a Plan B. • Great to see Pete Taylor getting the credit he deserves after he made the shortlists for the RTÉ Sport Sports Person and Manager of the Year awards. Pete coached daughter Katie to a fifth consecutive World title and sixth successive European crown in November.

Plenty of action on the pitch as the Arklow Arrows girls rugby team hosted a blitz last weekend against three other teams from Barnhall, Belvedere and Enniscorthy. (pic Yvette O Beirne)

24| ADVERTISING

wicklowvoice.ie December 11 2014

of Bray LOWEST PHOTOCOPYING & PRINTING PRICES LOWEST WEDDING STATIONERY PRICES LOWEST BINDING & LAMINATING PRICES LOWEST STATIONERY & ART PRICES

Come join us Saturday 13th December For our official Opening Day

We will have FREE Goodybags • FREE Vouchers plus FREE Facepainting for Kids

Eastcoast Radio will be broadcasting live from the store from 2 – 6pm

LOWEST BOOK PRICES GUARANTEED

25% off ALL Bestselling Books 103 MAIN ST BRAY

Ph: 01 5175963 Email: brayprint@reads.ie